Post News Network
Bhubaneswar, Jan 2: “The spirit and sacrifice of our freedom fighters are a source of inspiration for today’s youth,” said Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik who inaugurated the 28th Freedom fighters’ fest at Swadhinata Sangrami Sadan in the city Friday.
The Chief Minister said, “Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi many freedom fighters from the state joined the freedom movement. Their contribution has enriched the history of our state and country and they will always reside in the hearts of people of the state.
“Emphasis will be given on the problems faced by the freedom fighters in the state to ensure better facilities for them,” Patnaik said adding, “The state will celebrate the 100th death anniversary of Sahid Bagha Jateen.”
“Youth of today’s generation (must) step forward to celebrate this event and also work towards building a Country imagined by Mahatma Gandhi,” he said.
The programme, organised on the death anniversary of the freedom fighter and former Chief Minister of the state Dr Harekrushna Mahatab, was attended by many freedom fighters from across the state.
During the occasion the Orissa State Freedom Fighters Association president said, “The freedom fighters are the rare gems and their number is reducing with the bereavement of every freedom fighter. It is high time that the government ensures their safety, healthcare facilities along with other facilities. Steps are also required to be taken to make future generation aware about their struggle for and dedication to the country.”
Union petroleum minister Dharmendra Pradhan, school and mass education minister Debi Prasad Mishra, steel minister Prafulla Chandra Mallik and Bhubaneswar Lok Sabha MP Prasanna Patsani were among others who addressed the gathering on this occasion.
The Orissa State Freedom Fighters Association which organised the event also organised a youth convention in the afternoon as part of making the young generation aware of the sacrifices these martyrs made at their young age to save the country from British misrule.
A photo exhibition on pre-independence and post-independence era, depicting the struggle and contribution of freedom fighters was also organised on the occasion.
